That's the point, a barking dog probably is evidence of criminal activity - since it generally means that they are being abused under the law - lack shelter, etc. Last time I check, that IS a criminal act? And just think, if we give you the "excuse" to go check on a barking dog, you might find something even "better" when you get there. Gives you a right to be there at the property investigating a complaint, after all. Many a crime has been solved by being in the right place at the right time -